Bangladesh falter under pressure as Ireland's fielding errors go unpunished

Bangladesh's hopes of starting the T20I series on a high were dashed as they fell to a 12-run defeat against Ireland in Sylhet on 5 December.

Despite Ireland's fielding lapses, which saw them miss several catching, run-out, and stumping opportunities, Bangladesh failed to capitalise, crumbling under pressure in the closing overs while chasing 170.

Chasing a challenging target, Bangladesh got off to a flying start with openers Dilara Akter and Sobhana Mostary sharing a 103-run stand.

Sobhana, who struck three fours and two sixes in her 35-ball 46, was the first to fall to Orla Prendergast in the 12th over.

Shortly after, Dilara followed, scoring 49 off 41 balls, with two fours and two sixes. Captain Nigar Sultana Joty failed to make an impact, contributing just four runs.

Sharmin Akter and Taj Nahar attempted to steady the innings, with Nahar's quick 19 off 14 balls keeping Bangladesh in the game.

However, Prendergast's remarkable 19th over, a maiden that included two wickets, swung the momentum back in Ireland's favour.

Bangladesh needed 18 runs from the last two overs but managed just 157 for 7, falling short of the target.

Earlier in the day, Ireland had set a formidable total of 169 for 5 after opting to bat first.

Despite losing Amy Hunter early, captain Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul put on a commanding display. Lewis smashed 60 off 42 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes, while Paul remained unbeaten on 79 off 45, lacing her innings with ten boundaries and two sixes.

Bangladeshi bowlers struggled to contain the Irish batters, with Jahanara Alam, Nahida Akter, Fahima Khatun, and Jannatul Ferdous picking up one wicket each.

Despite Ireland's subpar fielding, Bangladesh failed to capitalise on the lifelines provided.

The hosts had reached a commanding position after 18 overs, needing just 18 runs from the final 12 balls with wickets in hand.

However, their inability to handle the pressure in the death overs proved costly, handing the visitors a crucial win.

With this victory, Ireland lead the three-match series 1-0.